Lebanon

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Summary

Still current at:

9 December 2016

Updated:

27 October 2016

Latest update:

Entry requirements section (Stop matches) - Lebanese Immigration Authorities check all visitors’ names on arrival against a database of those wanted for, or convicted of, offences in Lebanon; if your name matches against an entry on the database you may be detained unless you can prove that the record does not relate to you; you should therefore consider carrying supporting documentation such as a copy of your birth certificate or other official documentation

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise against all travel to:

Tripoli

Palestinian refugee camps

the Hermel Area, including Arsal, Baalbek

the Bekaa Valley east of the Baalbek El Hermel high way to the Syrian border and to the east of the main road which runs south through Rayak, by-passing Masnaa, Rachaiya, Hasbaiya and Marjayoun and El Khaim, to the border

Akkar district

areas of Liban-Nord district north of the southern city limits of Tripoli and east into the Bekaa Valley

southern suburbs of Beirut east of the airport road, defined as: south of the sports stadium to the airport, to east of the main airport highway including the neighbourhoods of Ghobeiry, Chuya, Haret, Hraik, Burj Al Brajne, Mraije, Er Rouais and Laylake

southern suburbs of Beirut west of the airport road, defined as: west of the airport highway to the coast, south from Adnan El Hakim Road to Abbas El Mousawi Road.

The FCO advise against all but essential travel to:

Bekaa Valley west of the Baalbek El Hermel high way except for the towns of Zahlé and Chtaura, and the main road between both towns and to Beirut

Saida except for the road that runs through the city directly alongside the coast (referred to locally as ‘the coastal road’)

south of the Litani River except the main Naqoura-Tyre-Saida-Beirut highway and all areas to the west of it, up to the Lebanese Armed Forces check point, roughly 5km south of Tyre

There is a high threat from terrorism, and there have been a number of incidents in recent years. Islamist extremist groups will seek to target the Lebanese state, security services, and civilians, and have the intent to target foreigners inside Lebanon. Attacks could take place in areas visited by foreigners, in Beirut and elsewhere, including hotels, restaurants and bars, markets, tourist sites, western-style shopping centres and supermarket chains. Attacks could involve grenades, car bombs, explosive belts, and firearm attacks.

Lebanese security authorities are at a high state of alert and conducting security operations across Lebanon. If you notice or suspect a security incident is underway, you should immediately leave the area. You should be vigilant, and be well aware of your surroundings.

On 31 August 2016, an explosion at the Ksara roundabout near Zahle resulted in one death and 11 injured.

On 27 June 2016, a series of suicide bomb attacks in Al Qaa resulted in 5 deaths and 21 reported wounded.

On 12 November 2015, there were explosions in Burj-al-Barajneh, in the southern suburb area of Beirut, 43 people were killed and 239 injured. The FCO advise against all travel to the southern suburbs of Beirut. Avoid this area and monitor local media for updates.

The security situation in parts of Lebanon can deteriorate quickly. There is potential for further violence, which could restrict departure options. The ability of the British government to provide assistance with departures may be limited. Keep up to date with developments, be vigilant, follow local advice and avoid any protests or demonstrations. Roads can become blocked due to protests. See Political situation

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

You should regularly monitor local and international media and this travel advice.